New county park offers much to enjoy

A dedication is planned for July 10 at the new White River County Park in the town of Lyons. Initially, park visitors can enjoy walking trails, river access for canoeing and kayaking and the beautiful scenery, which includes nearly two miles of river frontage. The park is free, although residents will need to get a permit for fishing, hunting or trapping on the land. Terry Mayer photo

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If you go

• What: Dedication and grand opening, White River County Park

• When: 6 p.m. Thursday, July 10

• Where: 6503 Sheridan Springs Road, town of Lyons

TOWN OF LYONS — Walworth County residents soon will have another place to visit to enjoy the great outdoors.

A dedication ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at the new White River County Park, 6503 Sheridan Springs Road, located near Wisconsin Highway 36 and Short Road in the town of Lyons. The 195-acre park, located along the White River, will feature hiking trails, picnic areas and a canoe/kayak launch. The park will be available for hunting, fishing, trapping and cross-country skiing.

Residents will have to obtain a permit to fish, hunt or trap on the property.

“(Residents) will have to apply for a permit at the county public works department,” said Nancy Russell, Walworth County Board chairwoman. “They want to know how many people are on the property. They don't want too many people doing (the hunting or trapping) all at one time. That could be dangerous.”

The park features a pond, which includes several species of fish and turtles. A fishing pier is in the works, Brunner said

“The pond is a really neat feature. It's an old quarry. I have not seen them, but there's supposed to be 100-year-old turtles in there,” Brunner said. “I think there's some bass and panfish in there.”

The park includes a barn, which could be developed into a nature center.